What You Should Know About Preconception
Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Prenatal Care and other Pregnancy topics.
What You Should Know About Preconception
Preconception is the time to prepare your body for impending pregnancy. Stop smoking to decrease the risks of birth defects and abstain from drinking alcohol at this time, since cutting out any potentially harmful substances improves your chances of conceiving. In addition, you should examine your diet to ensure you're getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs. It's recommended that any woman hoping to get pregnant begin taking folic acid, as it aids the development of the fetus.
If you are trying to become pregnant, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist for a pre-pregnancy exam. Also, begin tracking your menstrual cycle to mark the days you will most likely conceive.
Once you are pregnant it's important to begin prenatal care, which consists of regular visits to your doctor for checkups, ultrasounds and any tests that might be necessary. There are important things you can do to keep you and your baby healthy at home. If you have a cat, be aware that cat feces sometimes carry a parasite which causes toxoplasmosis. You should also be careful about eating any uncooked meats or shellfish which can contain harmful bacteria. This and much more can be discussed in detail during the course of your prenatal care.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Tammi Reynolds |
